Strength for the Journey: How Faith Turned a Setback into a Story

Steve writing along the coast of Nicaragua, reflecting on faith and perseverance.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

Living and writing here in Nicaragua has taught me something I didn’t fully understand before—strength doesn’t always come when things are easy. More often, it shows up when you’re not sure how things are going to work out.

A few months ago, I had never written a book before. I had thought about it. I had even started one. But like many unfinished ideas, it ended up buried somewhere deep in the files of my computer.

Then life changed.

I fell and fractured my leg. Suddenly, I was confined to my room for months. I had a choice. I could sit there feeling sorry for myself, or I could pass the time with distractions that would leave me no better off than before.

Instead, I decided to revisit that old manuscript.

What started as something forgotten became something worth pursuing. I began refining it, shaping it, and asking myself a simple question: Why not?

I had already spent years writing spiritual devotionals. Why not try something different? Why not tell a story—one that reflects perseverance, growth, and hope?

That question led to the creation of The Little Chef—a story about a young girl who faces obstacles in her life and grows into the person she hopes to become.

With the encouragement of a friend, I finished that first book.

Now, there are two in the series. And I’ve already begun work on another story, with more to come.

Looking back, what felt like a setback became the very thing that pushed me forward.

Sometimes strength doesn’t come from having everything go right. Sometimes it comes from choosing what to do when things go wrong.

And for me, that choice made all the difference.

Steve R. Hartwig is the author of The Little Chef series, inspired by life and faith in Nicaragua. You can explore his books here.: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Steve-R-Hartwig/author/B0GDXF6MSR